Holiday Grief Dr. Gil Bisjak    Holiday Grief Twinkling lights, holiday songs, baked goods and parties are a few of the things that signal the holidays are here. But something is wrong. You or someone you know feels more like crying than laughing. When we lose someone we love, it feels like someone unplugged the lights. At best our daily routines feel hollow and empty; at worst the gaiety just makes us more aware of our loss. How do people get through the holidays when everyone wants them to put on a happy face? If you are grieving, be honest about how you are feeling and know that is normal at a time like this. If someone you know is grieving, give them space to feel sad or mad. Changing holiday routines may help. Volunteer some time to help someone else or a charitable organization. Plug into spiritual activities that can provide a sense of hope. Avoid social obligations or people that drag you down. For a season you may be singing the holiday blues, but this too shall pass away.